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UN Honours Kofi Annan

Accra, 23 August 2018 – The United Nations System in Ghana joins the Government and the people of Ghana in mourning the loss of former UN Secretary-General Mr. Kofi Annan and expresses heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Nane Annan, the children and the entire family.

At a wreath-laying ceremony held in New York on Tuesday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres paid tribute to the late Kofi Annan, noting that “He put people at the centre of the work of the United Nations, and was able to turn compassion into action across the UN system.” According to the UN Secretary-General, “In many ways, Kofi Annan was the United Nations.”

Secretary-General António Guterres pays his respects during a ceremony honouring the memory and legacy of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan

He added that Kofi Annan was “A true voice for the voiceless, … [and] worked creatively to bridge differences and protect the most vulnerable. He stood his ground without antagonizing others; his humility, good humour, courtesy and charm went hand-in-hand with enormous wisdom and strength.”

Ms. Christine Evans-Klock, the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, said that “The UN family in Ghana joins all Ghanaians in mourning the passing of former UN Secretary-General, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, and son of Ghana, Mr. Kofi Annan. We give thanks for his amazing life of service to peace, human rights and development.”

UN Ghana honours Kofi Annan with the opening of a book of condolences in Accra

Referring to his life-long commitment to the United Nations, Ms. Evans-Klock pointed out that “What would be the most significant sign of respect for Kofi Annan, is the resoluteness with which we follow his example and act on our own opportunities to make a difference and to ensure that no one is left behind.”

The UN Country Team in Ghana shares Ghana’s grief at this time and stands with all Ghanaians in honouring the outstanding leadership and service of Mr. Kofi Annan.